Haus Tanne

What secrets does Haus Tanne hold? We stand before a remarkable red brick structure on Hermannswerder in Potsdam. Haus Tanne, built between 1891 and 1896, whispers stories of a time long past. Designed by Lembcke in the neo-gothic style, it stands as a testament to a unique period in Potsdam’s history. Originally an orphanage, Haus Tanne has witnessed the ebb and flow of life in this historic city. Potsdam, once the residence of Prussian kings and German emperors, has a rich and layered past. From the grandeur of Sanssouci to the significant Potsdam Conference, the city has played a pivotal role in German and European history. Haus Tanne, though not a royal palace or political stage, offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of Potsdam’s residents during a time of growth and change. Imagine the children who once called this place home, their laughter echoing within these red brick walls. The slate roof, now dark with age, once sheltered them from the rain and snow. The two-story structure, with its additional underground level, housed not only dormitories but also classrooms and communal spaces. Though Haus Tanne’s original purpose has shifted over time, the building’s resilience and historical significance remain. It stands as a silent witness to Potsdam’s evolving story, a story that continues to unfold around us today.